Dilli Chalo
As tensions escalate over the farmers’ planned march to Delhi on February 13 (Tuesday), the situation near the Haryana-Punjab border continues to remain tense. With the Haryana Government sealing all borders adjoining Punjab, farmers in Punjab are determined to push forward, echoing the sentiments of the past protests. And in this fight, the Punjab Government is backing the farmers.
In a show of solidarity, the Punjab Government has stood firmly with the farmers, recognizing their demands and concerns. In fact, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) led Punjab Government is going a step further to facilitate a dialogue between the farmers and the Centre to find a viable solution.
The Government’s alignment with the farmers can be attributed to the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, as well as the looming panchayat elections in the state. With political stakes high, the Government is keen on resolving the issue through dialogue rather than allowing the situation to escalate into protests, which could adversely affect Punjab’s industries and economy.
Additionally, the opposition parties in the state, such as the Congress and Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), have also thrown their weight behind the farmers, further strengthening their cause.
Samyukta Kisan Morcha (non-political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM) have given a Dilli Chalo call for February 13 seeking minimum support price (MSP) on all crops, punishment for the culprits in the Lakhimpur Kheri incident, quashing of all FIRs lodged during the farmers’ stir and Rs 10,000 per month pension for farmers aged over 60, among other things.
Despite the border sealing by the BJP-led Haryana Government, farmers in Punjab are steadily making their way towards the national capital as per their plans. On the other hand, the Punjab Government is actively working to facilitate a meeting between the farmers’ representatives and the Central Ministers in Chandigarh — the aim is to address the farmers’ grievances through peaceful dialogue, avoiding any potential confrontations or disruptions.
After a “successful” meeting between the two sides on February 8 in Chandigarh, which was also attended by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, another round of meeting is underway at the same venue on Monday evening. Union Food Minister Piyush Goyal and Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda, at the time of filing this report, were holding a crucial meeting with farmer representatives in Chandigarh.
Amidst escalating tensions, there appears to be a glimmer of hope for resolution with reliable sources indicating that the Centre is prepared to offer a solution to the ongoing issue.
It has been learnt that the Centre is considering the formation of a committee on farmers’ main demand, Minimum Support Price (MSP), comprising representatives from farmer organizations and experts from the field — aimed at addressing the farmers’ demands and pave way for constructive dialogue.
During the previous meeting held on February 8, three Central Ministers reportedly informed farmer leaders about their readiness to propose a solution. However, they expressed disappointment as the farmer organizations failed to nominate any leaders for the proposed committee.
Mann has reiterated his commitment to support the farmers and ensure their voices are heard at the national level. “Our government stands shoulder to shoulder with the farmers in their fight for justice and fair treatment. We are working tirelessly to facilitate meaningful discussions between the farmers and the central government,” Mann had stated.
Farmers Gathering at Borders
In a significant development, hundreds of tractor-trolleys, coordinated by the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM), have started gathering in Fatehgarh Sahib district since morning, while many more are expected to join in by the late evening. Farmers from various villages across Punjab have converged here, demonstrating their unity and resolve to press forward with their demands. The extensive line of tractors is strategically parked near Hansali Gurudwara Sahib, about 50 km from the Shambhu Barrier. The atmosphere at the gathering is one of camaraderie and determination. Farmers have set up langar (community kitchen) facilities to ensure that everyone is well-fed and cared for during their journey. Villagers from nearby areas have also extended their support by providing food, water, and other essentials to the protesting farmers.
Apart from Shambhu border at Fatehgarh Sahib, farmers are gathering at Khanauri border in Sangrur, Dabwali border in Bathinda, and Ratia border in Budhlada. As they await the outcome of a crucial meeting in Chandigarh, scheduled before their planned march to Delhi, farmers are actively engaged in preparing langar to serve all those currently stationed at Fatehgarh Sahib and those en route. Women from nearby villages are lending a hand in preparing rotis and cutting vegetables, fostering a sense of unity and solidarity among the protesters.
Challenges at Haryana Border
On the other side of the border, the Haryana Government has implemented stringent security measures to prevent the entry of farmers into Delhi. The area near the Shambhu Barrier is heavily fortified, with multiple layers of barricades, including stone boulders, concrete slabs, large containers, nails strips, barbed wire, along with tear gas shells and water cannons.
Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar defended the border sealing, citing concerns over law and order and potential disruptions to public life. “Our priority is to maintain peace and stability in the region. We have taken necessary measures to secure our borders and ensure the safety of our citizens,” Khattar stated. Over the past five days, the Haryana Government has been diligently preparing for potential unrest, setting up barriers and implementing stringent security measures to thwart the entry of farmers into the state.
Police officials have described the elaborate arrangements as a 12-layer barricading system, consisting of various obstacles such as stone boulders, concrete slabs, containers, iron nails embedded in concrete, and barbed wires. Additionally, heavy vehicles are strategically parked on the Haryana side, along with the deployment of tear gas, water cannons, and hundreds of personnel. Notably, trenches have been dug up in the kuchha portion near a bridge over the Ghaggar river, while iron bricks have been scattered to impede access.
Haryana Police are closely monitoring the situation, with preparations for any eventuality. Police authorities have emphasized their readiness for any potential confrontation, with all officers donning full-body protective gear. The deployment includes a significant presence of the Haryana Police force and paramilitary troops at the barrier, underscoring the state's commitment to maintaining law and order amidst the escalating tensions.
Surveillance cameras have been installed, and police personnel are equipped with tear gas protection and helmets. The police force is also reviewing footage from the past protests to anticipate potential scenarios and prevent any breaches of the barricades. “We are fully prepared to handle any situation that may arise. Our priority is to uphold the law and protect the interests of the state,” remarked a senior police officer stationed at the Shambhu Barrier.
As the standoff continues, tensions remain high, with uncertainty looming over the outcome of the planned march. While some hope for a resolution through dialogue, others fear the situation could escalate if talks fail. Amidst all this, speculations abound regarding the fate of the farmers' protest and its impact on the region. Farmers’ leaders have expressed determination to press forward with their march, vowing to continue their fight until their demands are met.
Challenges and Resilience
Despite the formidable barricades and obstacles erected by the Haryana government, farmers remain resolute and confident in their ability to overcome them, drawing inspiration from their past successes. Recalling the events of November 26, 2020, when farmers defiantly broke through barriers during protests against contentious agricultural laws, they remain undeterred in their determination to march towards Delhi's borders once again. This unwavering resolve underscored the farmers’ commitment to their cause and their readiness to face any challenges posed by the authorities in their journey to Delhi, determined to make their voices heard and demand justice for themselves and their fellow farmers. A farmer from Sangrur, expressing his determination, said: “We have faced hardships before, and we are prepared to face them again. Our fight for our rights will not be deterred by barricades or security forces. We will continue our march until our demands are met.”
Farmers’ Demands
1. Guarantee MSP for all crops, aligning with Dr Swaminathan Commission's recommendations
2. Implement a comprehensive debt waiver for farmers and labourers
3. Reinstate the Land Acquisition Act of 2013 nationwide, mandating farmer consent and fair compensation
4. Ensure justice for victims of the Lakhimpur Kheri massacre, holding perpetrators accountable
5. Exit the World Trade Organization and halt free trade agreements to protect local agriculture
6. Introduce pension schemes for farmers and agricultural labourers
7. Compensate families of deceased farmers from the Delhi agitation and offer employment to one family member
8. Revoke the Electricity Amendment Bill 2020
9. Guarantee 200 days of employment per year with a minimum daily wage of Rs 700 under MGNREGA, integrating it with farming
10. Enforce strict penalties on companies producing counterfeit agricultural inputs and enhance seed quality
11. Establish a national commission for spices to support chili, turmeric, and other spice farmers
12. Safeguard indigenous people's rights over water, forests, and land, preventing exploitation by corporations
Tensions rise as farmers’ march faces barricades: Punjab stands firm, Haryana seals borders
SLUG: Dilli Chalo
Monika Malik/Chandigarh
As tensions escalate over the farmers’ planned march to Delhi on February 13 (Tuesday), the situation near the Haryana-Punjab border continues to remain tense. With the Haryana Government sealing all borders adjoining Punjab, farmers in Punjab are determined to push forward, echoing the sentiments of the past protests. And in this fight, the Punjab Government is backing the farmers.
In a show of solidarity, the Punjab Government has stood firmly with the farmers, recognizing their demands and concerns. In fact, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) led Punjab Government is going a step further to facilitate a dialogue between the farmers and the Centre to find a viable solution.
The Government’s alignment with the farmers can be attributed to the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, as well as the looming panchayat elections in the state. With political stakes high, the Government is keen on resolving the issue through dialogue rather than allowing the situation to escalate into protests, which could adversely affect Punjab’s industries and economy.
Additionally, the opposition parties in the state, such as the Congress and Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), have also thrown their weight behind the farmers, further strengthening their cause.
Samyukta Kisan Morcha (non-political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM) have given a Dilli Chalo call for February 13 seeking minimum support price (MSP) on all crops, punishment for the culprits in the Lakhimpur Kheri incident, quashing of all FIRs lodged during the farmers’ stir and Rs 10,000 per month pension for farmers aged over 60, among other things.
Despite the border sealing by the BJP-led Haryana Government, farmers in Punjab are steadily making their way towards the national capital as per their plans. On the other hand, the Punjab Government is actively working to facilitate a meeting between the farmers’ representatives and the Central Ministers in Chandigarh — the aim is to address the farmers’ grievances through peaceful dialogue, avoiding any potential confrontations or disruptions.
After a “successful” meeting between the two sides on February 8 in Chandigarh, which was also attended by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, another round of meeting is underway at the same venue on Monday evening. Union Food Minister Piyush Goyal and Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda, at the time of filing this report, were holding a crucial meeting with farmer representatives in Chandigarh.
Amidst escalating tensions, there appears to be a glimmer of hope for resolution with reliable sources indicating that the Centre is prepared to offer a solution to the ongoing issue.
It has been learnt that the Centre is considering the formation of a committee on farmers’ main demand, Minimum Support Price (MSP), comprising representatives from farmer organizations and experts from the field — aimed at addressing the farmers’ demands and pave way for constructive dialogue.
During the previous meeting held on February 8, three Central Ministers reportedly informed farmer leaders about their readiness to propose a solution. However, they expressed disappointment as the farmer organizations failed to nominate any leaders for the proposed committee.
Mann has reiterated his commitment to support the farmers and ensure their voices are heard at the national level. “Our government stands shoulder to shoulder with the farmers in their fight for justice and fair treatment. We are working tirelessly to facilitate meaningful discussions between the farmers and the central government,” Mann had stated.
Farmers Gathering at Borders
In a significant development, hundreds of tractor-trolleys, coordinated by the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM), have started gathering in Fatehgarh Sahib district since morning, while many more are expected to join in by the late evening. Farmers from various villages across Punjab have converged here, demonstrating their unity and resolve to press forward with their demands. The extensive line of tractors is strategically parked near Hansali Gurudwara Sahib, about 50 km from the Shambhu Barrier. The atmosphere at the gathering is one of camaraderie and determination. Farmers have set up langar (community kitchen) facilities to ensure that everyone is well-fed and cared for during their journey. Villagers from nearby areas have also extended their support by providing food, water, and other essentials to the protesting farmers.
Apart from Shambhu border at Fatehgarh Sahib, farmers are gathering at Khanauri border in Sangrur, Dabwali border in Bathinda, and Ratia border in Budhlada. As they await the outcome of a crucial meeting in Chandigarh, scheduled before their planned march to Delhi, farmers are actively engaged in preparing langar to serve all those currently stationed at Fatehgarh Sahib and those en route. Women from nearby villages are lending a hand in preparing rotis and cutting vegetables, fostering a sense of unity and solidarity among the protesters.
Challenges at Haryana Border
On the other side of the border, the Haryana Government has implemented stringent security measures to prevent the entry of farmers into Delhi. The area near the Shambhu Barrier is heavily fortified, with multiple layers of barricades, including stone boulders, concrete slabs, large containers, nails strips, barbed wire, along with tear gas shells and water cannons.
Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar defended the border sealing, citing concerns over law and order and potential disruptions to public life. “Our priority is to maintain peace and stability in the region. We have taken necessary measures to secure our borders and ensure the safety of our citizens,” Khattar stated. Over the past five days, the Haryana Government has been diligently preparing for potential unrest, setting up barriers and implementing stringent security measures to thwart the entry of farmers into the state.
Police officials have described the elaborate arrangements as a 12-layer barricading system, consisting of various obstacles such as stone boulders, concrete slabs, containers, iron nails embedded in concrete, and barbed wires. Additionally, heavy vehicles are strategically parked on the Haryana side, along with the deployment of tear gas, water cannons, and hundreds of personnel. Notably, trenches have been dug up in the kuchha portion near a bridge over the Ghaggar river, while iron bricks have been scattered to impede access.
Haryana Police are closely monitoring the situation, with preparations for any eventuality. Police authorities have emphasized their readiness for any potential confrontation, with all officers donning full-body protective gear. The deployment includes a significant presence of the Haryana Police force and paramilitary troops at the barrier, underscoring the state's commitment to maintaining law and order amidst the escalating tensions.
Surveillance cameras have been installed, and police personnel are equipped with tear gas protection and helmets. The police force is also reviewing footage from the past protests to anticipate potential scenarios and prevent any breaches of the barricades. “We are fully prepared to handle any situation that may arise. Our priority is to uphold the law and protect the interests of the state,” remarked a senior police officer stationed at the Shambhu Barrier.
As the standoff continues, tensions remain high, with uncertainty looming over the outcome of the planned march. While some hope for a resolution through dialogue, others fear the situation could escalate if talks fail. Amidst all this, speculations abound regarding the fate of the farmers' protest and its impact on the region. Farmers’ leaders have expressed determination to press forward with their march, vowing to continue their fight until their demands are met.
Challenges and Resilience
Despite the formidable barricades and obstacles erected by the Haryana government, farmers remain resolute and confident in their ability to overcome them, drawing inspiration from their past successes. Recalling the events of November 26, 2020, when farmers defiantly broke through barriers during protests against contentious agricultural laws, they remain undeterred in their determination to march towards Delhi's borders once again. This unwavering resolve underscored the farmers’ commitment to their cause and their readiness to face any challenges posed by the authorities in their journey to Delhi, determined to make their voices heard and demand justice for themselves and their fellow farmers. A farmer from Sangrur, expressing his determination, said: “We have faced hardships before, and we are prepared to face them again. Our fight for our rights will not be deterred by barricades or security forces. We will continue our march until our demands are met.”
Farmers’ Demands
1. Guarantee MSP for all crops, aligning with Dr Swaminathan Commission's recommendations
2. Implement a comprehensive debt waiver for farmers and labourers
3. Reinstate the Land Acquisition Act of 2013 nationwide, mandating farmer consent and fair compensation
4. Ensure justice for victims of the Lakhimpur Kheri massacre, holding perpetrators accountable
5. Exit the World Trade Organization and halt free trade agreements to protect local agriculture
6. Introduce pension schemes for farmers and agricultural labourers
7. Compensate families of deceased farmers from the Delhi agitation and offer employment to one family member
8. Revoke the Electricity Amendment Bill 2020
9. Guarantee 200 days of employment per year with a minimum daily wage of Rs 700 under MGNREGA, integrating it with farming
10. Enforce strict penalties on companies producing counterfeit agricultural inputs and enhance seed quality
11. Establish a national commission for spices to support chili, turmeric, and other spice farmers
12. Safeguard indigenous people's rights over water, forests, and land, preventing exploitation by corporations
